Mindful Miles

Some days, a walk promises nothing but sunshine and familiar paths. Others, like a recent afternoon with my girls, become entirely unscripted adventures. We’d barely stretched our legs from home when the sky, without so much as a polite cough, unleashed an absolute torrent. Not just a shower, but a determined, drenching downpour that had us looking wildly for cover. Running back seemed a risky dash across slick pavements, and the thought of soaked children was less than appealing.

Then, just when the first chill began to truly settle, we saw it: a grand, maple tree, its magnificent branches fanning out like an enormous, protective umbrella. One particular limb stretched low and wide, creating a perfect, natural alcove. With a shared glance of relief, we ducked beneath it, huddling close.

I pulled my sweater off, using it as an extra layer of defense, and leaned in, my body becoming a warm shield for my girls against the onslaught. In that moment, it felt like an extraordinary collaboration. This powerful, silent guardian of the earth and I, working together, a team against the elements, providing the perfect haven.

What was truly incredible was the sound: the heavy drumming of rain on leaves above us, yet within our leafy sanctuary, only the lightest trickles found their way through, making the girls giggle with surprised delight. It was astounding, a tiny, dry bubble of unexpected refuge, all thanks to that majestic tree that truly marked the spot.

A few days later, under a brilliantly sunny sky, we found ourselves strolling along the very same path. As we approached “our” tree, the girls’ eyes widened. “Mum! It’s the tree!” they chorused, a wave of excitement bubbling up. “Can we go and say thank you?” they asked, practically vibrating with eagerness.

My heart swelled, and of course, I said yes. Off they dashed, straight for its sturdy trunk. And there, wrapped in a joyous embrace, they gave that silent, steadfast protector a hug as warm and heartfelt as the comfort it had given us during the storm.

It’s these unforeseen moments, these impromptu sanctuaries, that become the richest memories. That tree, standing tall and strong, didn’t just offer shelter; it offered a lesson in presence, gratitude, and the enduring generosity of nature.